Just to say it right away, Norway has a habit of beating Brazil in a World Cup context!!
Brazil will face Norway in the last eight on Sunday – knowing that a win will bring them one step closer to a sixth World Cup title. First up: Erling Haaland and a Norwegian team that dreams of sensation.
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While this is not a classic Brazilian team compared to previous editions, Carlo Ancelotti’s men have ended up in the weaker half of the draw – and have a good chance of reaching at least the semi-finals. But the way to get there is via one of the world’s most dangerous attacks.
Read: English media praises brilliant Martin Ødegaard
Matheus Cunha is not concerned with Brazil’s rich history. He wants to write his own.
“We want to build our own history and touch the hearts of Brazilians in the same way that previous generations touched ours. We want to achieve great goals, but above all, make the Brazilian people proud.
“If we are going to make our mark on this generation, let it be by conquering a new star. That’s how they were immortalized,” says Cunha.
Paquetá out – Brazil must adapt
Brazil will need to make a change in midfield, as Lucas Paquetá is out with a hamstring injury. Cunha admits that the loss is noticeable.
“It depends on the coach’s plan. We are becoming more and more confident in the harmony and continuity we have. It gives a lot of confidence to repeat the same things and see that it works.
“We will miss Paquetá, because we were in the process of creating a harmonious rhythm. But it depends on what the coach wants for the team. I don’t want to be the responsibility of being a coach right now,” he adds with a smile.
Haaland – Norway’s great hope
Norway are underdogs in New Jersey, but the presence of goal machine Erling Haaland always gives them a chance. With five goals so far in the championship – including a late win against Ivory Coast in the round of 32 – he is Norway’s big trump card.
Haaland resumes his duel with Arsenal stopper Gabriel on Sunday – a fascinating sub-plot that could be crucial to the outcome of the match.
Team news
Brazil: Danilo Santos replaces Paquetá in midfield. Raphinha is back in training, but the Barcelona winger will probably have to settle for a place on the bench, as Rayan keeps his place on the right wing. Casemiro is ready to play.
Norway: Right-back Julian Ryerson is approaching full fitness, but will not be risked in this match.
Probable line-ups
Brazil (XI): Alisson – Danilo, Marquinhos, Gabriel, Douglas Santos – Guimarães, Casemiro, Danilo Santos – Rayan, Cunha, Vinícius Júnior
Norway (XI): Nyland – Pedersen, Ajer, Heggem, Wolfe – Ødegaard, Berge, Berg – Sørloth, Nusa, Haaland
Key figures
- The only previous World Cup meeting between the teams was in 1998, when Norway won 2–1 in Marseille
- Erling Haaland has scored 50 percent of Norway’s goals in the 2026 World Cup
- Brazil have been beaten by the first European team they have faced in a final every time since 2002
Our Prediction
Brazil have struggled against European opponents in recent World Cup finals, and we could see this trend continue. Norway will probably have more athletic power in midfield, although Brazil will still be dangerous going forward.
Everything points to a draw – and maybe a penalty shootout.
Divination: Brazil 1–1 Norway (Norway advance on penalties)
Fantastic Erling Haaland’s national team goals for Norway
